Their burger brainstorms bust bellies at the Fair

Fair food doesn't just happen. Professional chefs spend hours dreaming up the caloric wonders that they hope will tantalize palates across the United States over the course of the state fair season. One of the more successful roving outfits is run by the Reas family from Indiana. They explained this year's featured dish to Tampa Bay Times illustrator Don Morris.

If you go:Check the schedule | New food to tryThe 110th Florida State Fair opens at 10 a.m. today and Feb. 10–13. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday and Feb. 14–17, it opens at 9 a.m.

Monday through Fridays, admission at the gate is $11 for adults and $6 for kids ages 6 to 11. Saturdays and Sundays, admission at the gate is $13 for adults and $7 for kids ages 6 to 11. On Feb. 10–13, tickets at the gate are $9 for seniors age 55 and older. Admission for kids 5 and under is free every day.

Armbands are $30 at the fair and provide unlimited rides for that designated day. Armband days are Friday, Saturday and Sunday and Feb. 14–17.